The REACH Pikes Peak established the Transition to Independence Program to increase the capacity of low-income individuals and families to become self-sufficient.
REACH Pikes Peak created the Transitions to Independence Program (TIP) as part of a holistic approach that could address the multitude of barriers to achieving self-sufficiency.
The framework for PPCAA's services is based on a ROMA Logic Model format adapted from the Center for Applied Management Practices. A Continuum of Services Logic Model responds to three levels of need:
- Need: Working poor families are at risk of hunger, homelessness, and ill health and are unable to access employment and community services
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Family Stabilization Services (FSS flyer) are provided involving assessment, eligibility, counseling, budget counseling, food pantries and supportive services.
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Outcomes include (a) people have safe and appropriate housing, (b) people are healthier, and (c) people have greater opportunities and access to employment and community services.
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Need: Working poor families often lack the necessary education, job skills, or life skills to successfully compete in the job market.
- The Transitions to Independence Program (TIP flyer) is offered involving orientation, assessment, case plans, counseling, workshops, supportive services, and follow-up.
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A Youth Education Savings Program (YES flyer) teaches fiscal responsibility, accountability and provides resources for educational assistance and post secondary education
- Outcomes include (a) education and skill levels are increased and (b) income is increased to self-sufficiency levels.
- Need: Lower-income people lack opportunities to build assets.
- The Individual Development Account Program (IDA flyer) provides orientation, intake & enrollment, savings accounts, financial literacy training, and asset training.
- Outcomes include (a) people are homeowners, (b) people obtain advanced education, and (c) people start and expand small businesses.
Intake and assessment for TIP uses a Self-Sufficiency Assessment Scale to determine client status from "In Crisis" to "Thriving" in six developmental domains: Housing/Food; Income/Assets; Education/Skills; Environment; Relationships; Personal Attributes.
TIP staff includes a Program Director, Case Managers and Client Counselors. Case management includes monthly follow-up for a period of one year.
PPCAA assists clients financially to help accomplish case management plans. An annual fundraising campaign known as The Empty Stocking Fund occurs through a collaborative community initiative. This is conducted by the local newspaper (The Gazette) and partners include area human service agencies, individual givers, businesses and foundations. Over $600,000 is raised with more than $100,000 provided to PPCAA.
Data for FY'08 through June 18th reflects:
- 40 clients currently enrolled (goal is to sign up 10 more)
- 166 services provided so far in 2008 at a cost of $20,663 ($124 actual cost per service vs. 2008 budget of $114) – 15 CNA Graduates so far in 2008 and 1 Bachelor of Science Degree
Prior year accomplishments are reflected in the 2007 TIP Annual Report.
John Tighe, Chief Executive Officer
719.471.7870